What weight oil goes in a manual transmission?
The recommended weight of oil for a manual transmission depends on the specific vehicle and transmission model, but in general, a 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil is commonly used. These oils are designed to provide the necessary lubrication and protection for the gears and bearings in a manual transmission.
Understanding Manual Transmission Oil
Manual transmissions require a specialized type of lubricating oil, known as gear oil or transmission fluid, to ensure proper operation and longevity of the internal components. The oil weight, or viscosity, is an important factor in determining the right oil for a manual transmission.
The oil weight is typically expressed using a two-number designation, such as 75W-90 or 80W-90. The first number (e.g., 75W or 80W) indicates the oil's viscosity at low temperatures, while the second number (e.g., 90) represents the oil's viscosity at normal operating temperatures.
A 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil is commonly recommended for manual transmissions because it provides the necessary lubrication and protection at both cold and hot operating temperatures. These oils are designed to maintain their viscosity and prevent excessive wear on the gears and bearings, even under high-load conditions.
Factors to Consider
When selecting the appropriate oil for a manual transmission, it's important to consider the following factors:
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always refer to the owner's manual or consult with the vehicle manufacturer to determine the recommended oil weight and type for your specific manual transmission.
- Driving Conditions: If you frequently tow heavy loads or operate your vehicle in extreme temperatures, you may need to use a higher-viscosity oil, such as 85W-90 or 90W.
- Transmission Age and Condition: Older or heavily used transmissions may require a higher-viscosity oil to compensate for wear and tear on the internal components.
It's important to use the correct oil weight and type to ensure proper lubrication and protection for your manual transmission, as using the wrong oil can lead to premature wear, reduced efficiency, and even transmission failure.
Is it okay to put ATF in a manual transmission?
As you may have figured out, automatic transmission fluid can, in some cases, work fine in manual transmissions.
Is thicker oil better for manual transmission?
Thicker oil is generally best for parts wear, and thin oil is better for shifting. The thin oil is displaced easier by the synchros when shifting - it squeezes out easier. Cars sure do differ in what they like in the tranny! I don't think that you need a 140 in a tranny.
What weight oil for manual transmission?
Commonly recommended manual transmission fluid formulations include SAE 80W, 75W-90, 80W-90 and SAE 90. In some cases, a multi-grade engine oil or automatic transmission fluid may be recommended. However, a manual transmission fluid is typically the most optimal for manual transmissions.
Can you use 80-90 gear oil in a manual transmission?
Yes, it will be safe. Use it with no worries. While some may have personal preferences for other brands and/or viscosities on the label, those preferences don't make your choice unwise.
